28. Chap. 28.-The Lupus, Asellus.

CHAP. 28.—THE LUPUS, ASELLUS.

At a later period, they set the highest value on the lupus[1] and the asellus,[2] as we learn from Cornelius Nepos, and the poet, Laberius, the author of the Mimes. The most approved kinds of the lupus are those which have the name of "lanati," or "woolly," in consequence of the extreme whiteness and softness of the flesh. Of the asellus there are two sorts, the callarias, which is the smallest, and the bacchus,[3] which is only taken in deep water, and is hence much preferred to the former. On the other hand, among the varieties of the lupus, those are the most esteemed which are taken in rivers.

1. The wolf-fish. Generally supposed to be the basse, or lubin of the French, much esteemed for their delicacy.

2. See N. 97 above.

3. Cuvier remarks, that we find this name in Euthydemus, as quoted by Athenæus, B. vii., used synonymously with that of "onos." We also find the names Callarias, Galerias, and Galerides; but none of the characteristics are given, by which to distinguish them.